The importance of grammar is emphasized in learning nearly every
language, and there is no doubt that it is imperative for error free learning.
But sometimes, as it happens, grammar is given over-emphasis and several other
important factors of language learning are ignored. Reluctantly, certain
deficiencies tend to appear due to such practice.
That is what happened to me when I first started learning Arabic. I have
always been a keen learner, and had honest interest in learning the new
language, so in theory the experience should have been interesting and
effortless. In contrast, even after burning mid-night oil for even a whole year
I was dissatisfied with my gains. The reason was that I had been fed a
hodgepodge
of grammatical rules, which I had efficiently mastered, but still
could not fluently express myself in conversation or in writing.
That is when I switched to a different
institute which utilized a strategy, suiting my appetite. The strategic change
was simple, the mastery of grammar was given secondary importance whereas
perfection of expression was the main goal. I found this experience to be more
indulging and satisfying which brought the best out of me.
Although there had been a considerable wastage of time and resources, I
had to accept that the prior arduous study of grammar did help me a lot even
through the second learning experience.
Now, I am of the opinion that grammar though it is of paramount
importance, should be given its due place. Students must be taught grammatical
rules steadily, with examples. It should never be made a burden upon young
pupils as to discourage them from engaging in its study. Their interest in
grammar should be maintained.
